The top luxury hotels in the Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is a beautiful part of Chile, located in the far north of the country. Known as one of the driest places on earth, this desert plateau is a popular part of many trips to the South American country and a wonderful destination full of stunning scenery, wildlife and outdoor experiences. One of the charms of this part of Chile is its contrast with the rest of the country. The flat, arid landscapes are vastly different to the green mountains of the lake district and the Carretera Austral, the snow-capped Andes mountains or the dramatic scenery of Torres del Paine and the Patagonian ice fields. Such a varied country as Chile has so much appeal and no more so for the luxury traveler.

One of the most famous parts of the Atacama is Moon Valley, an incredible lunar landscape reminiscent of images of Mars or the moon with numerous small peaks scattered through the desert. So realistic is it that it is used by NASA to test their equipment.

The variety of scenery in the Atacama continues as you journey further from the main town of San Pedro de Atacama. The town itself is small and charming, a collection of low, whitewashed buildings with a traditional market and a pretty church. The real attractions lie beyond the town visitors can discover all that this part of Chile has to offer. The salt flats, Salar de Atacama are one such attraction, their allure is clear on first sight with an otherworldly charm to them as stretch far out to the horizon, covered in a white crust of salt. It is here that you can find one of the rarest birds on earth, the Andean Flamingo. The contrast of the flocks of pink birds against the blue sky and white of the salt is a very speacial sight.

The Tatio Geysers are another highlight of the desert, located at over 14,000 feet above sea level. They are most powerful first thing in the morning so it is worth the early start in order to see the impressive plumes of white steam rising in the air.

These exceptional surroundings are worthy of hotels to match and the Atacama certainly delivers. There are several luxury hotels to choose from, all with beautiful features and the perfect base from which to explore this special part of Chile.

Awasi Atacama

The Awasi Atacama is the only luxury hotel located in the town of San Pedro de Atacama. Tucked away in the centre, it is barely noticeable yet behind the doors there lies a tranquil retreat offering 12 beautiful suites, amazing food and the exceptional service for which the Awasi hotels have come to be known.

The property really is a haven and once inside the gates, guests feel completely secluded and at peace. The rooms are spacious yet cosy, all created using the traditional adobe materials which were created over a period of two years by local artisans. The focus on local materials is carried throughout the hotel with traditional textiles and furniture used all over the property. The terracotta walls are complimented by bright textiles and with splashes of white and cream to cut through the traditional palette.

The activities at Awasi Atacama encompass all the traditional sights of the Atacama Desert. What is particularly special about the Awasi is that every rooms comes with its own private guide and vehicle, meaning that guests can enjoy a very exclusive experience. The food here continues that theme with dishes personally selected by the head chef and all created using local ingredients wherever possible. Inspiration is taken from the desert surroundings as well as the wider Chilean landscapes.

This is a beautiful hotel in an exceptional location.

Tierra Atacama

The Tierra Atacama is located just outside the town of San Pedro de Atacama and this location allows it to offer some exceptional views. Much like its sister hotels in Torres del Paine and Chiloe Island, it is known for its striking architecture, simple yet elegant design and warm and friendly service.

The rooms here are bright and spacious with views over the surrounding hills. The clean lines and crisp linens are complimented with warm accents of wood and traditional stone. Private terraces are the perfect spot to relax after a day exploring the desert.

The spa and pool area at the Tierra are particularly special. With a range of luxurious treatments to choose from, a beautiful infinity pool with views over the Licancabur Volcano, sun deck, hot tub and yoga spaces, this is the ultimate in luxurious tranquility.

Nayara Alto Atacama

The Nayara Alto Atacama sits on the opposite side of the town to most of the other luxury hotels and with striking views over the surrounding Valley and the mountains beyond. The Nayara perfectly encapsulates the materials, colours and aesthetic of the Atacama whilst offering complete luxury from service to experience to design.

The rooms at the Atacama make use of floor to ceiling sliding doors which open on to private terraces and offer spectacular views of the valley. The décor is a perfect mix of the terracotta of the desert while local textiles and materials add charming accents.

The cuisine at Nayara Atacama combines the flavours and ingredients of northern Chile and the surrounding Andean mountains to create elegant and delicious dishes. Guests can enjoy a traditional Latin American Asado, cooked as a Quincho, a typical Chilean method of cooking outside for a a delightful and authentic way of enjoying the food.

This hotel offers the best of the Atacama desert in beautifully luxurious surroundings.

Explora Atacama

The Explora is situated next to the Tierra Atacama and is a wonderful hotel option for the Atacama Desert. This property offers what Explora does best, complete immersion in the surroundings with an impressive array of activities, all from the base of a simple but elegant property. Like its sister hotels in El Chalten, Torres del Paine, the Peruvian Sacred Valley and the Bolivian Altiplano, it combines the trademark white and simple design with excellent service and guest experiences.

The rooms At Explora embrace the concept of simplicity and tranquility. The walls are whitewashed, the linen is crisp neutrals with traditional accents and the furniture is simple but comfortable. The focus is in the elegantly rustic and the overall guest experience. Choose from a carefully curated menu of activities designed to make the most of all that this exceptional part of Chile has to offer. From horseback riding to stargazing, guests can enjoy something different every day.

The gastronomy at Explora Atacama is a highlight with a menu designed by Virgilio Martinez of Central in Lima. It makes the most of the ingredients from the desert and the Andean region, creating delectable dishes for the most discerning palates.

Enjoy the best that the Atacama Desert has to offer at this beautifully simplistic hotel.

Simon Williams

Simon Williams is Director of Humboldt Travel. Humboldt Travel is a luxury travel company specialising in tailor made holidays to Latin America, Africa and Asia.